Arsenal have completed a historic £1 million transfer of Canadian forward Olivia Smith from Liverpool, marking the first seven-figure transfer in women’s football. The 20-year-old’s move to the European champions surpasses the previous record of £900,000 paid by Chelsea for American defender Naomi Girma from San Diego Wave in January. The milestone transfer comes 44 years after Trevor Francis became the first male player to command a million-pound fee when he moved from Birmingham City to Nottingham Forest in 1979. Arsenal secured Smith’s services after successful negotiations with Liverpool, who initially were reluctant to let go of their player of the season. “It’s my dream to compete for the biggest titles here in England and in Europe and I’m excited to get started and contribute to doing that here with Arsenal,” Smith said in a statement. Smith demonstrated her value at Liverpool last season, scoring nine goals and earning the club’s player of the season award despite the team’s struggles. Her versatility allows her to play both as a forward and on the wing, making her an attractive signing for Arsenal. Arsenal’s director of women’s football, Clare Wheatley, expressed enthusiasm about the signing: “We’re thrilled to bring Olivia to Arsenal. She’s one of the most talented young players in the game and has huge potential for further development here.” Smith’s journey in football began with her becoming the youngest player to represent Canada at age 15. She then moved to Sporting Lisbon in 2023, where she scored 16 goals in 28 games before joining Liverpool. “It’s a privilege and an honor to sign for Arsenal. The atmosphere the supporters create at Emirates Stadium is incredible and I can’t wait to have that behind me now,” Smith stated.
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The transfer represents Arsenal’s ambition to strengthen their position in women’s football, following their Champions League victory. The club, which holds the distinction of being the most decorated in English women’s football, has also secured the services of winger Chloe Kelly, Taylor Hinds, and Anneke Borbe on free transfers for the upcoming season. Liverpool, who finished seventh last season, plan to use the transfer fee to reinforce their squad. The record-breaking transfer signifies Arsenal’s intent to maintain their dominance in the league while setting a new benchmark for women’s football transfers. The transfer marks a significant moment in the development of women’s football, establishing a new financial milestone that reflects the growing investment and commercial value in the women’s game. Arsenal’s willingness to break the transfer record demonstrates the increasing professionalization and financial capabilities within women’s football.
